Love in Portland

A quick two-hour trip from Seattle, most Seattleites have already made a trip to this eccentric city at least once to visit the now-iconic Stumptown Coffee Roasters, grab a dozen Voodoo Doughnuts, navigate the maze of books at Powell’s and sample flavors from around the world at the notable Portland food pods. But, this time, skip the typical Portland tourist attractions and go beneath the city surface to enjoy a cozy, romantic destination for a weekend away. The hometown feel that blankets the mix of upscale restaurants, antique architecture, and earthy surroundings is the perfect setting to indulge in a glass of champagne beside a warm fireplace. Book a hotel and make plans for a truly intimate affair.

WHERE THE MAGIC HAPPENS

Kimpton Hotel VintageKimpton Hotel Vintage is perfect for wine lovers; book a private wine tour, visit the evening wine hour, and be entertained by a rotating bill of live music performers in the hotels’ Bacchus Bar, which specializes in Willamette Valley wines. To add to the romance, book one of the hotel’s luxury Garden Spa rooms that come complete with a private hot tub on your own private balcony. All rooms are inspired by urban artwork and designed with a swanky upscale vibe in mind.

Sentinel HotelA historic hotel in downtown Portland, the Sentinel Hotel is a cozy, boutique space designed with a classic antique feel. Enjoy the in-house historical art collection during the day and then immerse yourself in the Sentinel’s intimate bar, Jackknife, for a romantic evening in a dim, speakeasy atmosphere. Before heading to bed at the end of the evening, be sure to check out the hotel’s “pillow menu” to choose your preferred pillow type and sleep blissfully during the entirety of your stay.

Heathman HotelThis elegant spot that prides itself on luxurious beds and a calming ambiance is famed as the filming location for the popular movie “Fifty Shades of Grey.” Located in the cultural and financial district, the Heathman Hotel is only steps from the Portland Art Museum and Portland Center for the Performing arts making it an excellent destination for arts patrons. A true gem of the hotel is the Tea Court Lounge, book in advance for an afternoon tea and pastry experience.

DATE NIGHT

Dinner & A Moviephoto: camknows via Flickr

For a twist on a classic dinner and a movie date visit Portland’s Living Room Theater, a luxe movie theater with relaxing oversized chairs and a European style café and lounge. Catch one of the theater’s artsy films and enjoy the full bar and complete tapas menu before or during the film. Or, if you want to take advantage of Portland’s local beer scene visit the Hollywood Theater for a rotating selection of local brews to accompany your choice movie.

Evening ViewPhoto: Redfishingboat (Mick O) via Flickr

Bring a full picnic or simply some hot chocolate to brave the chilly Portland evenings at the Skidmore Bluffs. This green space is the perfect spot to watch a picturesque sunset and see a view the nearby river.

Game Onphoto: Ashley Anderson

Enjoy a date with a little friendly competition at Ground Kontrol. This Portland staple is a vintage spot for adults to enjoy a full bar, a DJ, karaoke and a large array of iconic 90s arcade games. Or, if arcade games aren’t your style, pop in to Pips and Bounce for a cocktail and a lighthearted game of ping-pong at one of the spaces many upscale ping-pong tables.

Sweet spotPhoto: Woodblock Chocolate Manufactory

Chocolate is an accompaniment to any plans for romance. Portland is a haven for sweets, so try a sampling of bean-to-bar creations from local favorites Woodblock Chocolate or Pitch Dark Chocolate. Cacao, an artisanal chocolate shop is a must visit for anyone looking for an array of delectable chocolate treats.

About the author

Anna is a Southern California native residing in Seattle as an undergraduate at the University of Washington. She is an intern for Ville Magazine and spends her time cultivating her passions for people and culture through her time as a journalism student and reporter for the campus newspaper. Twitter: @annadib4